ALUN ARMSTRONG has revealed how Darlington's failure to reach the play-offs could scupper their hopes of retaining his services next season.

Without extra revenue from gate receipts, manager David Hodgson's budget is unlikely to accommodate Armstrong's wage demands.

The 30-year-old is out of contract and was due to hold talks with Hodgson yesterday, but was forced to cancel due to commitments back home in East Anglia.

Hodgson is keen to offer Armstrong an extended deal at the Williamson Motors Stadium, although much will depend on the financial package put forward next week.

"We'll have to see how it goes, although I think the financial situation could be a stumbling block," admitted Armstrong.

"We haven't really discussed figures yet but David has informed me that the budget he's working with is less than what he thought it would be after we missed out on the play-offs."

Gateshead-born Armstrong was offered the chance to resurrect his career back in the North-East in September after he was released by Ipswich, joining Quakers on the basis that he could move on if a chance to play at a higher level came along.

But despite hitting 11 goals in 34 appearances, Armstrong has only attracted tentative interest from Colchester - a club which would allow the former Newcastle United and Middlesbrough player to commute from his home near Ipswich.

"I will wait to see what comes my way because I do want to play at a higher level," said Armstrong. "I've never made any secret of that and David knows that."

Despite returning to the North-East, Armstrong has been forced to commute from his Suffolk home during his eight months with Quakers.

However, the Tynesider has hinted that he could uproot his family if the right offer came along.

"I'm settled down in Ipswich, but I would be willing to move if I was offered two years somewhere," said Armstrong.

"There would be no point in moving if I was only offered a year.

"If there was an opportunity to sign two years with Darlington then I would seriously consider it.

"I'm from the North-East and that's where I will eventually settle again with my family."

* Former Quakers defender Richard Hope has been handed a free transfer by new Chester City boss Keith Curle.

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